A case study on the ayurvedic management of Autism spectrum disorder (ASD - Vatapaitika unmada) using medhogulika and bhunana taila

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental condition characterized by qualitative abnormalities in social interactions, reduced communication skills, and restricted repetitive behaviors and activities. There is no direct reference to ASD in Samhitas and it can be considered as an Anukta vyadhi. Unmada, a disease that afflicts manovaha srothas, is characterized by the perversion of intellect, mind, and memory.ASD can be correlated to Vatika unmada. The treatment of unmada involves various Ayurvedic formulations. Medha gulika is a polyherbal formulation indicated in anxiety and mental depression, dementia and it improves memory, concentration, and brain functioning (medhya). Bhunaga Talia is an anubhootayoga indicated in treatment of apasmara, bhootonmada, vaksanga etc.Nasya and shiroshirodhara are effective in treating manovaha srothovikaras. Bhunaga taila and Medha gulika can be combined to develop an effective treatment protocol for ASD. The main aim of this study is to develop a protocol of treatment for a patient suffering from ASD, which helps manage the symptoms and make behavioral improvement. A 5-year-old female child who was brought to the OPD with the diagnosis of ASD was treated with both these medicines and the changes before and after the treatment was noted based on the Trivandrum Autism Behavioral Checklist (TABC). Minimal improvement was noted in the behavior of the child following treatment of 90 days.